While he may be inundated with midfield options, doubts remain over the fitness of Jack Wilshere and the Frenchman is keen to bolster his ranks - with injury-prone Abou Diaby set to be offloaded at the end of the season.

Italian defender Santon was thought to be on Wenger's wishlist during his time with Inter Milan, prior to moving to St. James' Park this time last year.

His ability to play on either flank makes the 23-year-old an attractive proposition - and as concerns grow over Bacary Sagna's ongoing contract talks - a bid may well be approaching.

Meanwhile, Sagna has been linked with a massive £4m-a-year contract with Turkish side Galatasaray, according to the Daily Mail.

The Frenchman's deal at the Emirates expires at the end of the season and is available to talk to foreign clubs regarding a potential transfer.